Preparing for Drought

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Drought is defined as acute water shortage or a longer lasting duration of dryness compared to the historical average for the area. Worst droughts occur when one or two very dry years follow several years of generally below average rainfall.

In our region droughts occur at roughly 20 year intervals. The most recent drought from 2006 to 2010 was broken by devastating wide spread flooding of the region. The likelihood of fires and heatwave is greatly increased during a drought and they can occur on numerous occasions.

The prolonged nature of drought adds stress to family units, businesses and community groups.

When a drought is declared, extra resources are appointed in Council and other agencies to assist the community. This information will only be available when a drought has been declared.

The following websites in conjunction with the information provided on the "Fire" and "Heatwave" tabs will help you understand how to prepare for a drought: